National Professional Officer (Aromatic Plants Expert)

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The FAO Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme, which operates from 2019 to 2025, focuses on providing technical and advisory services to the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MoEWA).

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Aromatic Plants Expert) will play a crucial role in the Programme Management Unit of the FAO Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme. This position involves providing technical and advisory assistance to the MoEWA in implementing its sustainable rural agricultural development programme, which is part of the National Transformation Programme under Saudi Vision 203

• The expert will be responsible for managing and coordinating various project components aimed at enhancing the production and trade of aromatic plants, particularly roses and jasmine. The role requires a deep understanding of local agricultural practices, cultural contexts, and institutional frameworks to effectively support the development of sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Professional Officer include advising and liaising with government authorities and local institutions, promoting FAO's image through advocacy and communication, coordinating the maintenance of country data on food and agriculture, producing technical and policy studies, identifying and preparing project proposals, monitoring project implementation, training and supervising lower-grade staff, and performing other related duties as required. Specific functions include coordinating with national stakeholders, assisting in sector reviews, promoting best agronomic practices, developing pest management programs, establishing nurseries, preparing project reports, and supporting partnerships for innovation in aromatic plant production.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and possess an advanced university degree in plant production, agronomy, or a related field. They should have at least five years of relevant experience in the development of aromatic plants and project management in sustainable rural agricultural development. Proficiency in Arabic and intermediate knowledge of English are also required. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships are essential, along with technical skills in policy analysis, data collection, and project proposal development.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in plant production, breeding, agronomy, or a related field. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural development and the specific needs of aromatic plant production.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the development of aromatic plants and trade, as well as project management in the field of sustainable rural agricultural development. Experience in field positions and working in multiple locations or areas is desirable, as it enhances the candidate's ability to adapt to various agricultural contexts and challenges.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in Arabic (level C), with a good command of English (level B) being advantageous. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The contract duration is aligned with the FAO Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme, which runs from 2019 to 202

• The position may involve collaboration with various national and international stakeholders, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel within the country to engage with local communities and agricultural sectors.